Studying in Australia can be a valuable opportunity for international students who want a recognised qualification, practical learning and international career experience. However, tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance and everyday living costs can make studying abroad expensive. This is why many students search for fully funded scholarships in Australia for international students in 2026.
Australian scholarships come from different sources, including the Australian Government, universities, research institutions and external organisations. Some awards cover tuition fees and living expenses, while others offer a percentage reduction in tuition fees or a fixed financial contribution.
The most suitable scholarship depends on your nationality, academic record, chosen course, study level and intended start date. A scholarship available for a PhD student may not be open to an undergraduate applicant, and a university merit award may cover tuition only rather than all living expenses.
This guide explains the main scholarship options, eligibility requirements, application process and practical steps international students can take to find funding for study in Australia.
Important 2026 update: Scholarship availability and deadlines change by provider and intake. As of October 2026, check each provider’s official website to confirm whether applications are open for the remaining 2026 opportunities or for a 2027 start.
What Are Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia?
A fully funded scholarship is an award that covers the major costs specified in its terms. Depending on the programme, this may include tuition fees, a living allowance, health insurance, travel expenses and other approved costs.
However, the term “fully funded” is not used consistently by every university. A scholarship advertised as a full tuition scholarship may pay 100% of tuition fees without covering accommodation, food, flights or other expenses.
Before applying, check the official scholarship conditions and identify exactly what the award pays for.
| Scholarship type | What it may cover |
|---|---|
| Full tuition scholarship | All eligible tuition fees for the stated period |
| Tuition fee reduction | A percentage or fixed amount deducted from tuition |
| Government scholarship | May include tuition, living allowance, travel and health cover |
| Research scholarship | May combine a tuition fee offset, living stipend and approved allowances |
| Merit scholarship | Financial support based on academic achievement or other selection criteria |
| Need-based scholarship | Assistance for applicants who meet specified financial or equity criteria |
The best option is not necessarily the award with the biggest headline value. It is the one that matches your course, eligibility and total study budget.
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
Australia Awards Scholarships are a major Australian Government-funded option for eligible applicants from participating developing countries, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. They support full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian institutions, subject to the applicant’s country profile and programme rules.
The official programme generally provides benefits such as:
- Full tuition fees for the approved study programme
- A return economy-class airfare
- A one-off establishment allowance
- A contribution to living expenses
- Overseas Student Health Cover for the scholarship holder
- An introductory academic programme
- Certain additional academic or fieldwork support where eligible
The precise benefits and eligibility conditions must be checked against the official programme information.
Who should consider it?
Students from eligible participating countries whose academic and professional goals align with their country’s development priorities may wish to investigate this scholarship. Not every nationality or course is eligible, and country-specific requirements can differ.
Applicants must also understand the award conditions. Australia Awards recipients are generally required to leave Australia for at least two years after completing their scholarship. Failing to meet this condition can result in a debt for the accrued scholarship costs.
For the 2027 intake, the main application round generally opened on 1 February 2026 and closed on 30 April 2026. Some country-specific schemes have different dates, so check the official country profile for the relevant round.
Official information: https://www.dfat.gov.au/people-to-people/australia-awards/australia-awards-scholarships
2. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
The Australian Government’s Research Training Program supports eligible domestic and international students undertaking higher degrees by research at participating Australian universities.
RTP funding may be provided as one or more of the following:
- Tuition fee offset: Covers eligible research-degree tuition fees.
- Stipend: Helps with general living costs.
- Allowances: May contribute towards approved expenses such as relocation, thesis-related costs or health cover, depending on the award.
RTP is especially relevant to students applying for a research master’s degree or a PhD. It is not a general funding scheme for all bachelor’s degrees or coursework master’s programmes.
Universities administer their own selection processes, deadlines and scholarship offers. International students should contact the research office or scholarship team at their intended university to confirm the current funding arrangements.
Selection can be competitive. Universities may assess academic results, research experience, research potential, referee reports, the proposed project and its fit with the institution’s research strengths.
Official information: https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program
3. University Research Scholarships
Many Australian universities offer research scholarships in addition to, or through, government-funded research programmes. Some awards combine tuition support with a regular living stipend, making them worth investigating if you plan to complete a research degree.
For example, the Australian National University lists University Research Scholarships for eligible higher degree by research applicants. Its published information describes merit-based selection and funding for eligible PhD and Master of Philosophy candidates. Award values, deadlines and conditions can change, so applicants should confirm the current round directly with ANU.
Other universities may offer research scholarships through their graduate research schools, faculties or individual research projects.
When comparing research awards, check:
- Whether international applicants are eligible.
- Whether the scholarship covers the full international tuition fee.
- The stipend amount and payment duration.
- Whether Overseas Student Health Cover is included.
- Whether a supervisor must agree to support your research proposal.
- Whether admission and scholarship applications are separate.
Official ANU scholarship information: https://study.anu.edu.au/scholarships/find-scholarship/anu-university-research-scholarships
4. University Merit Scholarships for International Students
Merit scholarships are commonly offered to students with strong academic records. They can be available for undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programmes, although the value and eligibility rules differ between universities.
Some provide full tuition coverage, while others reduce tuition fees by a percentage or provide a fixed annual contribution.
UNSW International Scientia Coursework Scholarship
UNSW Sydney lists the International Scientia Coursework Scholarship for eligible undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students. Depending on the offer, the award may cover full tuition fees for the minimum duration of the programme or provide a contribution of AUD 20,000 per year towards tuition fees.
Applicants should review the current scholarship page for academic, leadership, extracurricular and application requirements. The award is competitive, and meeting the entry requirements does not guarantee selection.
Official information: https://www.scholarships.unsw.edu.au/scholarships/id/1988/7272
Monash International Leadership Scholarship
Monash University lists the International Leadership Scholarship for eligible international students who have received an offer for an undergraduate course. Its published scholarship information states that the award covers 100% of course fees, with a limited number offered each year.
This is an example of a scholarship that can cover tuition in full, but applicants must confirm the current eligibility criteria, eligible courses, application process and award conditions. Full tuition coverage should not automatically be interpreted as full living-cost support.
Official scholarship search: https://www.monash.edu/study/fees-scholarships/scholarships/find-a-scholarship
UNSW International Student Award
UNSW also offers an International Student Award for eligible students from specified countries commencing in eligible programmes. The published award provides a 20% contribution towards tuition fees for the duration of the programme.
This is a partial scholarship rather than a fully funded award. It may still help reduce the overall cost of studying in Australia.
Official information: https://www.scholarships.unsw.edu.au/international-student-award
Important: These examples illustrate different funding levels. They are not a guarantee that a particular award remains open for every 2026 intake. Check the latest university information before applying.
5. Fully Funded Scholarships for Undergraduate Students
Students applying for a bachelor’s degree often have fewer options for full funding than students applying for research-based postgraduate degrees. However, undergraduate scholarships are available at some Australian universities.
Depending on the institution, funding may be based on academic merit, leadership, financial need, nationality, school results or a combination of factors.
If you are looking for fully funded undergraduate scholarships in Australia for international students, investigate:
- University-specific full tuition awards
- Government scholarships for eligible nationalities and courses
- Scholarships linked to a particular faculty or academic programme
- External awards offered by foundations or sponsoring organisations
- University awards that can be combined with other eligible funding
Read the conditions carefully. A scholarship may be available only to new students, only for a specified intake, or only for particular courses. It may also require you to maintain a minimum academic result each year.
Are foundation-year scholarships available?
Some universities and pathway providers offer scholarships or fee reductions for foundation studies or diplomas. However, these awards should not be assumed to be fully funded.
Government scholarships and university research funding often have specific study-level restrictions. For example, the Research Training Program is intended for research master’s and doctoral study, not foundation programmes or ordinary bachelor’s coursework.
If you need a foundation year before starting a degree, ask the provider whether the award applies to the foundation course, the subsequent bachelor’s degree, or both.
6. Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in Australia
Students considering a master’s degree should first establish whether their intended programme is a coursework degree or a research degree.
Coursework master’s programmes generally involve taught subjects, assessments and practical projects. Scholarships may provide full or partial tuition support, but living costs are not always included.
Research master’s programmes involve a substantial research component. Eligible applicants may be able to apply for Research Training Program funding or university research scholarships.
Your application may be stronger if you can demonstrate:
- Consistently strong academic results
- Relevant professional or research experience
- A clear reason for choosing the course
- A research proposal that fits the university’s expertise, where required
- Strong academic references
- Evidence that you meet English-language and admission requirements
Applicants interested in business or an MBA should check the exact programme terms. Some MBA awards are limited, competitive or offered as fee discounts rather than full scholarships.
7. Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in Australia
PhD candidates may find funding through the Research Training Program, university research scholarships, faculty awards or project-specific scholarships.
A research scholarship may combine a tuition fee offset with a living stipend. Some awards also provide approved allowances, but benefits differ between universities and scholarship packages.
Start by identifying research areas that match your qualifications and experience. Review the research groups and projects at each university, then check whether a supervisor’s support is required before submitting an application.
Prepare your academic transcripts, CV, research proposal where requested, references and evidence of research experience. Publications may help in some selection processes, but they are not a universal requirement for every scholarship.
Deadlines can be earlier than general course admission deadlines. Some universities run central scholarship rounds, while others advertise project-specific opportunities throughout the year.
Do not assume that every PhD offer includes a scholarship. Confirm in writing whether tuition, stipend, duration and other expenses are covered.
8. What Are the Eligibility Requirements?
There is no single eligibility checklist for every Australian scholarship. Requirements depend on the scholarship provider, country, course and study level.
Common criteria include:
- Academic achievement: Minimum grades or a competitive academic record.
- Nationality or residency: Some awards are restricted to citizens of specified countries.
- Course and study level: The course must be eligible for the scholarship.
- Admission status: Applicants may need an offer of admission or to apply for admission and funding together.
- English-language proficiency: The university or course may require an approved English test or another accepted form of evidence.
- Research potential: Research scholarships may assess a proposal, relevant experience, publications and academic references.
- Leadership or community involvement: Some merit awards consider leadership, volunteering or extracurricular activity.
- Financial need: Certain awards are designed for applicants who meet specified financial or equity criteria.
- Ongoing academic performance: Recipients may need to maintain enrolment and meet academic progress requirements.
Check the official rules before paying for tests, translations or other application expenses. Requirements for one scholarship should not be assumed to apply to another.
9. Documents You May Need
Prepare your documents early, as missing information can delay an application or make it ineligible.
Depending on the scholarship, you may need:
- A valid passport or proof of identity.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- English-language test results, if required.
- A CV or résumé.
- A personal statement or scholarship essay.
- Academic or professional reference letters.
- A research proposal for research-based programmes.
- Evidence of employment or relevant experience, if requested.
- An offer letter or evidence of a submitted course application.
- Evidence of nationality, financial circumstances or other eligibility criteria where applicable.
Use the provider’s document checklist as the final authority. Do not submit unnecessary sensitive documents unless the scholarship instructions require them.
10. How to Apply for Scholarships in Australia
A structured approach helps you avoid spending time on awards for which you are not eligible.
Step 1: Choose your study level. Decide whether you want to study a bachelor’s degree, coursework master’s, research master’s or PhD.
Step 2: Shortlist suitable universities. Compare the course, location, entry requirements, tuition fees and scholarship availability.
Step 3: Check official scholarship rules. Confirm eligible nationalities, course restrictions, award value, closing date and whether separate applications are required.
Step 4: Apply for admission if required. Some scholarships require an offer first; others assess scholarship eligibility alongside your course application.
Step 5: Prepare your documents. Follow the required format for transcripts, references, statements and research proposals.
Step 6: Submit before the deadline. Keep confirmation emails and copies of the submitted application.
Step 7: Monitor your application. Respond promptly if the university requests more information.
Step 8: Review the offer conditions. Before accepting, confirm what is covered, how long funding lasts and what academic or enrolment conditions apply.
If you are applying for Australia Awards, follow the official country-specific process. For Research Training Program and university research awards, contact the relevant university because it manages the selection and application process.
11. How Competitive Are Australian Scholarships?
The most generous scholarships can be highly competitive because the number of awards is limited and applicants may come from many countries.
A strong academic record can help, but selection criteria vary. Research awards may place substantial weight on research potential, project fit and academic references. Leadership scholarships may assess achievements outside the classroom. Government awards may focus on eligible countries and development priorities.
You can improve your approach by applying only to awards that match your profile, preparing tailored applications and checking whether your course is eligible. Apply to more than one suitable opportunity where the rules permit it, but do not use the same generic statement for every scholarship.
There is no reliable universal acceptance rate for all Australian scholarships. Unless a provider publishes a figure for a specific award and intake, avoid relying on unofficial claims about your chances.
12. Costs to Plan for Even With a Scholarship
A fully funded award can reduce the financial burden considerably, but you should still understand the exact expenses covered.
Check whether your scholarship includes:
- Tuition fees for the full approved course duration
- A living allowance and how it is paid
- Overseas Student Health Cover
- Flights and relocation costs
- Visa-related expenses
- Accommodation deposits and initial living costs
- Books, equipment and other course expenses
A tuition-only award may leave a substantial living-cost gap. A stipend may also be subject to conditions and may not cover every personal expense.
Do not assume that a scholarship replaces every financial requirement for a student visa. Confirm current visa and financial evidence requirements with Australia’s Department of Home Affairs.
13. Finding Scholarships Still Available in Late 2026
Because it is now October 2026, students should distinguish between awards for a 2026 start and applications for a 2027 start.
For Australia Awards, consult the official opening and closing dates and country profile. The main 2027 application period for many participating countries closed on 30 April 2026, although certain country-specific schemes have different schedules.
For university awards, check current pages rather than relying on old scholarship lists. For example, UNSW has published an international scholarship application round for students commencing Term 1, 2027, with a stated closing date of 30 October 2026. Applicants should confirm the live status and complete any required submission before the deadline.
Research scholarship deadlines differ by university and programme. Contact the graduate research office directly if a published deadline has passed or if you are considering a later intake.
Official starting points:
- Australia Awards Scholarships: https://www.dfat.gov.au/people-to-people/australia-awards/australia-awards-scholarships
- Australian Government Research Training Program: https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program
- Australian Government information on financial assistance: https://www.education.gov.au/international-education/financial-assistance-international-students
- UNSW international scholarships: https://www.unsw.edu.au/study/your-future/international-scholarships
Conclusion
Fully funded scholarships in Australia for international students in 2026 are available through selected government programmes, research funding schemes and university awards. However, not every scholarship covers tuition and living expenses, and eligibility can depend on nationality, study level, academic performance and course choice.
Undergraduate applicants should investigate university-specific awards and government programmes open to their nationality. Students applying for a research master’s or PhD should also explore the Research Training Program and university research scholarships.
Start with official scholarship pages, verify the current intake and prepare your documents before applying. If an award covers only tuition fees, calculate the remaining living and relocation costs before making a final study decision.
Frequently asked questions
What fully funded scholarships are available in Australia for international students in 2026?
Options include Australia Awards Scholarships for eligible applicants, Research Training Program funding for eligible research degrees, and university-specific awards. Coverage and availability depend on the scholarship and intake.
Are there fully funded undergraduate scholarships in Australia for international students?
Some universities offer full tuition scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, but full living-cost funding is less common. Check each award's benefits and conditions.
Can international students receive Australian Government scholarships?
Yes. Eligible international students may apply for specific government programmes, including Australia Awards Scholarships and research funding administered through eligible universities. Nationality and study-level restrictions apply.
What is the difference between a fully funded scholarship and a full tuition scholarship?
A fully funded award may cover tuition and specified living or other costs. A full tuition scholarship generally covers tuition fees only, unless the provider states otherwise.
Can I get a fully funded master's scholarship in Australia?
Some research master's scholarships may combine tuition support with a living stipend. Coursework master's scholarships vary and may cover only part or all of tuition.
Are there fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia for international students?
Eligible international PhD candidates can explore Research Training Program scholarships and university research awards. Benefits, selection criteria and deadlines differ by university.
Do I need IELTS to apply for an Australian scholarship?
Some courses and scholarships require English-language evidence, while accepted tests and exemptions vary. Check both the university admission rules and scholarship conditions.
Can I get a scholarship in Australia without a university offer?
Some awards require an admission offer first, while others assess scholarship eligibility alongside admission. Follow the specific provider's application instructions.
Are Australian scholarships available for MBA students?
Some universities offer MBA or business-school awards, but eligibility and funding levels vary. Confirm whether the scholarship applies to your specific MBA programme.
Can a scholarship cover accommodation and living expenses in Australia?
Some government and research awards provide living support, but many university scholarships cover tuition only. Read the official benefits carefully.
Are foundation-year scholarships available in Australia for international students?
Some institutions offer foundation or pathway fee reductions, but full funding is not guaranteed. Confirm whether the award covers the foundation course, the later degree, or both.
How competitive are fully funded scholarships in Australia?
Competition varies by award. Academic results, research potential, leadership, nationality and course eligibility may affect selection. Meeting minimum criteria does not guarantee an award.
Are applications for Australia Awards Scholarships 2027 still open?
The main 2027 round for many participating countries closed on 30 April 2026, but country-specific schedules can differ. Check the official Australia Awards dates and country profile.
How do I apply for a fully funded scholarship in Australia?
Choose an eligible course and university, verify scholarship rules, prepare the required documents and submit the application before the official deadline.
Where can I check current Australian scholarship deadlines?
Start with the official Australia Awards website, the Australian Government's Research Training Program information and the scholarship pages of your chosen universities.
